I've seen individuals who are the primary connection between two important departments; say IT and sales, speaking both languages enough to translate. On paper, not much work done; in reality, critical for smooth operation.

"I have people skills!"

I get what you're saying and have worked with people like that. But I see that as a different management problem that also needs to be solved.

The management problem is not seeing the value these sorts of people generate for the organization, yes.